Community Health Workers (CHW) are trusted members of the community with a passion for helping others prevent or manage disease or other physical/behavioral health issues. CHWs tend to have an intimate knowledge of their communities and local resources. They use that knowledge and passion to help individuals overcome barriers to care such as those associated with language, culture, transportation, scheduling and finances.

The Eastcentral PA Area Health Education Center (AHEC) offers a 100 hour training program designed to provide the core competencies needed for work in community-based and inpatient settings. Also, the training provides comprehensive information about accessing healthcare and other social/community resources which are specific to the particular area where the training takes place.

Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis.

Funding for the Pennsylvania Area Health Education Center Program is provided by the Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration and the Pennsylvania Department of Health. The Commonwealth's Medical Community and Communities at Large provide additional support.